Discussion

El Sarape, Braintree= terrible!

Hi, I'm new to the board and found it when searching for restaurant reviews in the Boston area. I was searching because I had a truly awful experience tonight and wanted to warn others ;) Looking foward to some good recomendations!My husband and I visited El Sarape in Braintree for what we thought would be an inexpensive, good mexican meal. To start from the beginning, as we were seated we were served tap water in glasses with food caked on them. We didn't mention it so as not to be rude but just hoped it would improve. Next we were served margaritas in glasses that were still hot from the dishwasher. Not really what you expect when you order a cold beverage but, hey, at least we knew they washed these ones! And it only got worse when the food arrived.. I ordered the chicken enchiladas and they arrived lukewarm, full of dark meat, covered with the saltiest tomato sauce I have ever tasted.My husband had the tacos which he said were edible but definitely not good. To top it all off it was at least 80 degrees in the restaurant and we were seated so close to the next party that we had to be careful not to bump elbows!All that to say, stay away!

For what it's worth, I've been to El Sarape several times and have been consistently impressed--fantastic margaritas (served in cold glasses, btw), good service, excellent food. (I'm especially high on the chicken with green peppers, bacon and mushrooms.)

Live in Braintree, and El Sarape is probably the restaurant I frequent more than any other. Sorry to hear you had a bad experience, but I don't think its representative. I've never had any dirty glasses, but I will admit to the occasional hot margarita glass when they're busy...not ideal, but I just drink it fast and hope the next one's cold!

Also, would suggest some alternatives from the menu to anyone who is considering a trip. I tried both the tacos and enchiladas early on, and they are nothing special (though I do like the enchiladas mole, but I don't mind dark meat).

If you like enchiladas, try their burritos which are very similar to an enchilada - two tortillas of chicken and cheese with your choice of green or red sauce. I strongly prefer their green sauce, which is delicious. Another standard, safe option are the fajitas.

My personal favorites are the pollo en salsa de mango and the carne asada plate, which comes with an enchilada, chorizo and guac. The guac is really good, though portion sizes are small (two scoops for the app...nothing like Angela's bowl - yum). Also think they do a good mole, and their nachos (refried beans, cheese, jalepenos) are simple and delicious. That said, the regular chips and salsa are good too - if a bit oniony.

Love their margaritas, and the service outside of one surly guy is excellent. Give this place a try if you're in the area.

I've never had such a horrific experience at El Serape. It's reasonably priced, decent Mexican food in a region that doesn't excel in Mexican food. The margaritas are good and the salsa has some zip, unlike the watery, bland salsa at the Acapulcos that have sprung up throughout Metro West. I've never had a terrific meal at El Serape, but I've never felt cheated, or worse, ill, either.